Why visit Koh Samui
Unlike Phuket and Krabi, which face the Andaman Sea, Koh Samui - Thailand's third-largest island - lies in the Gulf of Thailand. Beaches here range widely in character, from the lively resort strip at Chaweng and Lamai to the quieter sands of Taling Ngam and Natien, and the whole island is small enough to explore by car or motorbike in a couple of hours.
Accommodation spans simple guesthouses right up to some of Thailand's finest five-star spa resorts, so two trips of identical length can sit at very different price points. When you want a change from the beach, options include cooking classes, yoga sessions, Muay Thai training, scuba diving and golf, plus a busy scene of restaurants, beach clubs and bars.
Getting there takes some planning. Only Bangkok Airways flies direct into Koh Samui Airport, with connections from Bangkok, Pattaya's U-Tapao or Phuket; travellers on any other airline instead fly into Surat Thani and then cross by ferry or catamaran, a journey of roughly two and a half hours from Don Sak pier to Lipa Noi pier.
Things to see and do
Angthong Marine National Park
A full-day boat trip through a marine park of limestone islands.
Big Buddha
One of the island's most-visited landmarks, an easy half-day stop.
Bophut Fisherman's Village
A restored fishing village with a popular Friday night walking street.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai
The island's well-known rock formations on the southern coast.
Namuang Waterfall
A jungle waterfall stop, often combined with a 4WD safari tour.
Koh Tao day trip
A neighbouring island popular for diving and snorkelling excursions.
A typical day tour also takes in the cultural side of the island - Wat Plai Laem, the Secret Buddha Garden and the mummified monk kept at Wat Khunaram.
Good to know
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | December to February; the Gulf coast sees more rain around October-November than Phuket or Krabi |
| Getting there | Koh Samui Airport via Bangkok Airways, or Surat Thani + ferry |
| Ferry option | Don Sak to Lipa Noi pier, approx. 2h30 |
| Getting around | Small enough to circle by car or motorbike in a couple of hours |
| Currency | Thai Baht (THB) |
Trips that include Koh Samui
6D/5N Koh Samui Island Break
A longer stay with more time for excursions and relaxation.
For a beach-and-city combination that stays on the Gulf coast rather than crossing to the Andaman side, Koh Samui pairs naturally with Pattaya and Bangkok.